While we all know that twiddling our fingers and shooting the breeze with nearby co-workers limits our productivity, not all of us are clued in to productive habits. If you’ve ever wondered how to get more out of the limited hours of your work day, here’s a few tips to get you on the right track!

Plug In

Work better with headphones in? Find the music that beats your drum. Or, drown out the noisy neighbor or the irritating sounds of construction.

Tackle the To-Do List

Set it and stick to it. Try sorting out 3-5 tasks a day that you want to complete, and make them your highest priority. Plus, crossing things out always feels good!

Enforce Your Email Plan

Try limiting the compulsive email checking; focus on the task at hand and don’t get distracted. If it helps, turn off new email previews or any distracting alerts.

Manage Your Meetings

Not everything needs an hour discussion; schedule meetings for the appropriate amount of time. Send out an agenda beforehand and don’t follow tangents.

Know When You Shine

Bright eyed and bushy tailed at 7am? Tackle your toughest assignments in the morning. Need a nap at 2pm (who doesn’t)? Schedule something monotonous during that time period.

Unplug

Put your personal iPhone away. Not only does this help with distractions, but it keeps work and personal time separate.

Scheduled Work Time

Booked in meetings 24/7? Schedule some ‘Me Time’ on your calendar to work away in the closest Flock touchdown station.

Short and Sweet

While writing a novel in an email may nail out the details, only a short one encourages a full read. Keep to the high points instead of adding more characters.

Take a Break

No, really. Energize yourself and shake off the naptime feeling with a quick walk around the office when you feel you’re losing focus.

Cut It Out

The simple beauty of Ctrl + C is a magical thing. Cut the fat by using keyboard shortcuts and favorites for repetitive actions.

Fuel Your Fire

No one can run on steam. To have some fuel in the tank, take time for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Plus, who doesn’t love food?

Write It Down

Capture each task or project by writing them down. Writing it down frees up some of your brain’s hard drive for a little extra processing power!

Just Say No

If you’re a habitual ‘Yes Man’, time to change your tune. Saying ‘No’ when you’re overloaded or not meeting commitments could be the wisest call of your day.

Pick Up the Phone

Instead of playing email tag, pick up the phone. Having an actual discussion can resolve an issue in a matter of minutes, whereas email could leave it unresolved for days.

Try Delegating

Don’t stretch yourself too thin. Though many people shudder at delegation, try handing off tasks or assignments that could be handled by someone else.

Start small; try to tackle two or three of these to see how it improves your productivity. Once you’ve mastered the art, or have a few of your own to share, add your hat to the pile and comment below!

Do you struggle to find the time to work out in the midst of your busy life? You’re not alone. Many Americans cite the lack of time as the top reason for not hitting the gym. If your spare time doesn’t grow on trees, or you’d just like to up your workout game, check out these 15 tips for finding your fitness at work!

Take a Hike. In other words, get up and move! Every hour or so, get up and take a brisk walk around the office. It’ll add up!

Hold a Standing Meeting – Literally. Just because you’re meeting doesn’t mean you have to be sitting. Schedule it at a standing table or desk!

Do Mini Exercises at Your Desk! Hold your feet just off the ground for sixty seconds or alternative holding your legs parallel to the floor. Trust me, it’s a workout!

Take the Stairs. Don’t take the elevator if you can help it. Climbing a flight of stairs is nearly equivalent to running!

Turn Off Your IM. Need to message a co-worker? Jog over to their desk instead of taking the technological easy route.

Take Advantage of your Lunch Hour. Join a local gym, or walk down by the river when you have a block of open time.

Snack Smart. Don’t load up on caffeine and sweets if you want to shed some extra pounds. Any variety of healthy snacks can help you take the edge of your hunger.

Stretch It Out. Nothing feels better than a couple of stretches to mix up your morning. It gets the oxygen flowing and gives your brain a break.

Walk, Run, or Bike to Work! If you’re close enough (and rain clouds aren’t on the horizon), take the opportunity to ditch the car!

Exercise at Your Standing Desk. Standing desks are a great start to finding your fitness. Want to up the ante? Try throwing in some calf raises and one-legged squats throughout the day.

Maintain Good Posture. Don’t slouch. Good posture has innumerable health benefits, including a straighter spine.

Schedule Out of the Way Conference Rooms. Up the stairs, around the corner, and down the hall? Yes, please! It’s a great excuse to get in your steps and get away from your desk.

Park in the Next Zip Code. Walking a few blocks to the office is a great way to start your day and arrange your priorities, or clear your head and stretch your legs after a long day!

Walk While You Talk. Conference calls scheduled all day long? Take a walk during those calls to get in your steps and energize your mind.

When I was about four years old, I remember hearing the words every child dreams of in a toy store: “Pick out a toy!” I can remember fancifully wandering down the aisles and being absolutely riveted by a particular stuffed bunny. Why did it catch my eye? It was the only pink bunny left in a field of white ones.

The little pink bunny came home with me that day. So, you may ask, why did it stand out from the crowd? The pink bunny was different.

In a sea of white bunnies, HON is the company that stands out. From being made with pride in the USA to our member culture, HON delivers practicality and innovation:

Made in the USA

For nearly 75 years, HON has been dedicated to designing, engineering, and manufacturing most of our products right here in the USA. We’re based in Muscatine, Iowa, the heartland of America. When you buy HON office furniture, you’re buying durable products built with confidence.

Member Culture

Our members are dedicated to serving our customers, community, and society. Every year, we raise money for numerous charities around the globe. Between 2002 and 2017, HON has raised more than $5.2 million for City of Hope, a global leader in the fight against cancer, diabetes, and other life threatening diseases. We’re empowered to serve – and happy to give back to our community.

An Effortless Experience

When you call our Customer Support team, our goal is to answer you in a minute or less. Our experienced members are trained to make your case their priority – and to find a solution to any question you have. From ordering to expediting, we strive for an effortless experience.

Sustainability

We’re committed to sustainable business practices. From using 27,000 gallons of reclaimed paint annually to fabric recycling that keeps tons of waste from landfills every year, we aim to make a smaller impact every day. Moreover, 72% of our products are Level Certified. HON Green isn’t just our favorite color – it’s our commitment.

Our Product

Whether you’re looking for your next private office or the collaborative space next door, be assured that HON’s product is built to last. We’re confident in the value, quality, and durability that HON products deliver. Our Full Lifetime Warranty is our assurance to you that our product will be free from defective material or workmanship for the life of the product.

We’re a One Stop Shop

Our breadth of line allows you the ability to specify your entire project with our company. Welcoming spaces, offices, benching, cafes – we have it all at the right price. With all of our available options, it’s easy to see how HON meets your needs.

With HON product, you’ll be receiving quality, made in the USA product that’s durable and sustainable. We’re confident that you’ll have an effortless experience and that we can meet your furniture needs.

Where do you go when you need the best chair, with the best warranty, at the best price? The HON Company, of course! With a wide range of models for every niche and necessity, you’ll be able to find the best fit for you and win every workday.

To help narrow down your choices, answer these six quick questions to get you on the path to success!

Function: What features do you need?

Core seating functionality, like pneumatic height adjustment, tilt, and swivel, are standard on most chairs this day and age. However, our best-selling series, Ignition, aptly runs the gamut on features and functionality. Ignition allows you to mix and match your favorite adjustment features, in addition to offering three different back sizes, five ilira-stretch mesh colors, and three arm options for a personalized solution. In search of a multi-purpose series with panache for your training room? Motivate is one for you. Thirteen eye-catching shell colors inspire creativity and break up the obligatory black and grey of the office.

Comfort: How long will you sit?

Looking for a chair known for its comfort? Try out our popular Pillow-Soft series with responsive memory foam that eliminates pressure points. Convergence has a breathable mesh back for all day comfort and support, but it also features a 3” thick seat cushion that take stress off the lower body. If you’re looking for a 24-hour call center, check out our Nucleus series! Molded seat foam pairs with ilira-stretch mesh to created unparalleled support.

Purpose: Where is it going?

From board room to breakroom, HON has you covered. Different types of chairs suit different environments. Collaborative areas, like the one below, pair best with series like Flock and Grove. With a variety of options, these series can fill the niche and provide great looking spots to collaborate outside of the cubicle. Executives offices pair well with the stately Park Avenue collection. Featuring inlaid wood accents, the collection leaves a lasting impression. If you’re outfitting your hospital waiting room, check out our Soothe collection. Made from durable, cleanable materials, the entire collection is designed to maximize patient comfort and enhance functionality for the caregiver.

Ergonomics: What do you desire?

When looking for a new chair, be cogniscient of how adjustments and design promote healthy, sustainable sitting. HON makes it easy to work ergonomically in your environment. Our Endorse collection boasts a wide array of features designed to support you ergonomically: adjustable lumbar support, seat glide, multi-position tilt, headrest, and synchro-tilt. If you’re seeking a breathable, comfortable solution, Solve’s mesh back provides continuous support while still maintaining airflow. Moreover, Solve boasts a ReActiv back that moves with the user for optimal support. Throughout all of our HON lines, you’ll find a variety of ergonomic adjustments, controls, and designs to suit your seating needs.

Material: What do you prefer?

Want a chair that makes a statement? The possibilities are endless! From fabrics, to leather, to polyurethanes, HON’s offering will surely meet your needs. Do you prefer our standard HON branded fabrics, or want to focus on Partnership fabrics like Maharam’s Grade? If you’re seeking a breathable alternative to upholstered backs, mesh backs are offered on a variety of HON series and provide comfortable, responsive support. Thinking that a polyurethane is more your style? A popular best-seller, Brisa is offered in 55 stunning colorways. Which one is your favorite?

Budget: What does yours look like?

Regardless of whether you’re buying for your executive or your home office, we can cater to you. If you’re seeking a solid solution with the most bang for your buck, the stylish Volt is set at an affordable price point. It won’t break the bank and it’ll deliver the comfort you demand and the quality you expect. In the other corner, the Ceres collection offers a stunning and aesthetically pleasing solution that offers total support for any space. These visually captivating chairs cradle you throughout the workday and exude sophisticated style.

With HON, you can be assured that you’ll find the right solution. Looking for more tips on how to find the perfect chair for you? Visit Chair Chooser!

As the clock ticks closer, the masses scan their inboxes, knowing that this email is likely the last. Once the email is sent, the silent scramble takes place and the fateful few reply … BINGO! I finish just out of the ribbons this week – but don’t worry, I’ll be back from more come next Friday! Here at HON Customer Support, our famed Friday Bingo is well loved and greatly appreciated by our members. Though our trusty old Bingo Box has certainly seen better days, members celebrate whatever treasures and candy lie therein!

Are you looking to jazz up your office with a little fun? Here’s a couple of ways you can inspire some excitement (while still making sure it doesn’t interfere with productivity):

Awaken Members with Activities

Get up and get going! From changing your Coordinate from seated to standing height, or taking a moment at the beginning of the day for a quick Minute-To-Win-It game with a few co-workers, energize and socialize!

The Power of Paper

Do something tangible for your members! Tangible ‘thank you’ notes, made from actual cardstock, tend to be treasured desk favorites. If you’re creative, try a monthly or quarterly newsletter with fun articles or interesting ideas. Our most popular read? Member Spotlights and Wall of Fame! Or, try introducing a new award on your team. Get creative! Get colorful! There’s a whole slew of ideas on Word and Publisher for awards – try a few!

Hand Outs Help

Give out something small as a reminder that you care. About six years ago, a fabulously creative co-worker of mine handed out dime size painted rocks with googly eyes and painted smiles to everyone in the department with a note saying ‘You Rock!’ It’s still a cherished artifact in my Voi Low credenza. Something, even as small as a painted rock, can make a big difference!

FEED ME!

Food is fantastic. Food is fun. Food is everything in one. (I’m rhyming now!) Food days, like Taco Tuesday, get people involved. Moreover, competitive bake offs, like pie-baking contests or team food day matches, inspire people to get creative and collaborate with their team mates.

Fight the Fidget … with Toys

Inject some fun into your work days! One of our favorite break time activities during Customer Support week in 2016 was remote control car races. At the end of the week, we were all expert RC Drivers. Speed racing not your thing? Try gigantic blow up dice – trying for a Yahtzee in three roles only takes a minute or so!

What are some of your ideas for keeping it fun around the office? Share your suggestions below!

As we gather the fallen leaves, pick the ripening apples, and overstuff the quintessential bird, we occasionally tend to forget that it’s the season to be thankful. Alas, not this year! We’ve gathered a list of all the things that we’re thankful for here at The HON Company. So, grab a smoldering hot chocolate, kick up your flocked feet, and settle in!

1. Our Amazing Customers

First and foremost, we’re thankful for our amazing customers! Your dedication to selling the HON brand and promoting our products is without parallel; we appreciate your support! From east coast to west coast, and everywhere in between, we value the fact that our customers choose the HON brand. Thank you for your continuing partnership!

2. Our Dedicated Members

What makes The HON Company tick? Our members! Everyone from Supply Chain to Marketing, Customer Support to Sales, Training to Product and beyond has a hand in the daily upkeep of this amazing company. Whether we’re working on garnering the next shipment of lock assemblies or designing a new prototype, we all work together to make this a well-oiled machine.

3. Our Commitment to Being a Great Place to Work

Chili Contests, Jeans Days, volunteer and professional opportunities … who wouldn’t want to work for HON? As a member going on her seventh year of working for this fantastic company, I can’t imagine working elsewhere. We continually improve our members through leadership programs, HON University courses, and frequent training sessions. Now that’s something to sink your teeth into!

4. Our Evolving Products

On average, we launch about 10 new product lines a year! We stay ahead of this ever-changing industry by constantly evolving our product assortment, revolutionizing our materials and textiles, and introducing innovative new product lines. Check out our newly launched seating textile In Season (aptly named for a fall blog!), view our recently expanded Flock collection, or try out our Build Tool on hon.com today!

5. Our Community

Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, Muscatine, Iowa was the Pearl Button Capital of the World in 1905, accounting for nearly 37% of the world’s buttons. Since then, Muscatine has become home to The HON Company where we take a vested interest in upholding our strong community. Whether we’re fundraising for local or national charities with the HNI Charitable Foundation or helping the community in partnering with City of Hope, we strive to make a difference!

Though we’re not serving hot apple cider and green bean casserole just yet, there’s plenty to be thankful for here at The HON Company! Anything you’d like to add to the list? Tell us below!